Dixon 503 - Manual (Page 4)

SAFETY
RIDING LAWNMOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED. CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.
The following examples are the most common causes of injury to the operator or
bystander.
1. BLADE CONTACT: The operator or bystander inserts a hand or foot into the
discharge chute or under the mower deck and into the path of the cutting
blade.
Never run the mower blades when there are people nearby.
Always turn the engine off when cleaning or working around the mower deck.
2. RUN-OVER: This situation occurs when a bystander is run-over or backed over by the
"mower The most frequently cited examples are with small children who wander
into or are allowed to play, in an area where the mower is being operated.
Never run the mower blades when there are people nearby, especially children.
Young children should be indoors and watched by an adult. Always look behind
you before backing up.
3. TIP-OVER: This occurs when the mower tips over, usually sideways or to the rear.
This situation is due to operation of the mower on steep inclines or near a drop
off.
Mow across the slope to slightly uphill.
Mow slopes when the grass is dry and watch for bumps, holes and other
obstacles.
Test the slope with the blades off. A good rule of thumb is "Don't mow on a
slope you can't back up". Stay clear of drop-offs, especially if they are on the
down side of a slope.
4. THROWN OBJECTS: The fast spinning mower deck blade can strike stones or other
objects which can be hurled into the path of a bystander. To prevent this from
happening, never remove the safety discharge chute from the mower deck, or
operate the mower when other people are around.
5- FIRES: Most accidents of this type occur during re-fueling of the mower or placing
the mower in a storage situation. The exhaust system and related engine
components operate at very high temperatures which can ignite any fuel spilled
on or near them. Always allow the mower to cool before re-fueling or placing in
storage.
6. OPERATION BY CHILDREN: This mower is not a toy or recreational vehicle.
Never allow children to operate the mower in any manner or to ride as a
passenger.
NOTE: .The six examples are the most frequently cited injury causing situations.
Please review all the safety precautions outlined on the following pages prior
to operation of the mower. Our aim is to enhance the safe and satisfactory use
of this product.